HS 854590 Other
Quick Answer: Electrical goods imported under HS 854590 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at rates up to 2.70% ad valorem, and the US at rates up to 60% ad valorem. This residual classification, "Other," applies to electrical conductors, insulators, and other electrical goods not specifically enumerated in preceding headings of Chapter 85. It is crucial for importers and customs brokers to meticulously review product specifications to ensure they do not fall under more specific HS codes, as misclassification can lead to significant penalties. According to CustomTariffs data, the wide variation in duty rates across major markets underscores the importance of accurate classification for cost-effective trade.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8545900000 | — | — | — |
| 8545909099 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8545901000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8545909000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8545909010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8545900000 | — | — | — |
| 8545901000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
| 8545909000 | 2.70 % | — | — |
| 8545909010 | 2.70 % | — | — |
| 8545909015 | 2.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8545902000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
| 854590 | — | — | — |
| 8545904000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).
Data compiled and presented by HSRates.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 854590 cover?
This subheading covers "other" carbon electrodes, carbon brushes, and other articles of graphite or other carbon, not elsewhere specified or included within heading 8545. According to the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and definitions found in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, this category encompasses a diverse range of carbon-based products that do not fit into more specific subheadings of 8545, such as those for electrodes for furnaces or specific types of brushes. Examples include carbon rods for lighting, certain types of carbon seals, and specialized carbon components used in various industrial applications, provided they are not specifically enumerated elsewhere.
What falls outside HS 854590?
The following products are excluded from HS 854590: carbon electrodes for electric furnaces (8545.11), carbon brushes for electric motors, generators, or other electrical apparatus (8545.20), and carbon articles for electrical uses not otherwise specified in heading 8545. For instance, carbon powder for metallurgical uses, activated carbon, or carbonized textile fabrics would be classified under different headings based on their specific nature and intended use, such as Chapter 38 for activated carbon or Chapter 68 for other articles of carbon.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 854590?
A common error is misclassifying carbon articles that have a more specific classification under other headings of the Harmonized System or even within other subheadings of 8545. For example, carbon electrodes for specific applications like welding or electrolysis, if not explicitly covered by a more precise subheading, might be incorrectly placed here. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 3(c) is crucial, which states that goods are to be classified under the heading which occurs last in numerical order among those which equally merit consideration, but often, a more specific description elsewhere in the tariff schedule will take precedence over this residual "other" category.
How should importers classify products under HS 854590?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 854590 involves a thorough examination of the product's composition, intended use, and any specific characteristics that might align it with a more precise classification. Importers and customs brokers should consult the WCO Explanatory Notes, the specific tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff), and any relevant national rulings or decisions. If the product is a carbon electrode, brush, or other carbon article not specifically described in the preceding subheadings of 8545, and it does not fall under any other heading in the HS, then 8545.90 is the appropriate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 854590?
A shipment of 100 kilograms of specialized carbon seals, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $250.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($5,000 USD × 0.05 = $250.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 8545.90.0000, which specifies a 5.0% ad valorem duty for this category.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 854590?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 854590, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide duty-free entry for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or duty-free rates for eligible originating goods from designated developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What is the import duty for HS code 854590 in the US, EU, and UK?
The import duty for HS code 854590, which covers 'Other' carbon electrodes, etc., varies by region. In the United States, the general Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 2.70% ad valorem, as per the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS). For the European Union, the rate can be found in the TARIC database; while many carbon electrodes fall under more specific headings, 'other' items classified here might face rates such as 1.70% ad valorem. In the United Kingdom, the UK Trade Tariff indicates a duty rate of 2.70% ad valorem for this classification. Preferential rates may apply under various trade agreements, requiring specific proof of origin.
How is the duty calculated for HS 854590 if the duty rate is 2.70% ad valorem and the declared value is $10,000?
The duty calculation for an ad valorem rate is based on the declared value of the imported goods. For HS code 854590 with a 2.70% ad valorem duty rate and a declared value of $10,000, the duty amount would be calculated as follows: Duty = Declared Value × Duty Rate. Therefore, Duty = $10,000 × 0.0270 = $270.00. This calculation assumes no other duties, taxes, or fees apply.
What are the classification criteria for goods falling under HS 854590 'Other'?
HS code 854590 is a residual category for carbon electrodes and other articles of carbon or graphite, not specifically covered by preceding headings within Chapter 85. This includes items like carbon brushes for electrical motors and generators, carbon rods for welding or soldering, and other specialized carbon or graphite articles used in electrical applications that do not fit into more specific HS codes (e.g., 8545.11 for electrodes for furnaces, 8545.19 for other electrodes, 8545.20 for carbon brushes). Classification relies on the specific use and material composition, often requiring technical specifications and product literature.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 854590?
When importing goods under HS code 854590, standard import documentation is generally required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the description, quantity, and value of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the origin and destination country, a certificate of origin may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or product data sheets to substantiate the classification, especially if the item is not a commonly traded carbon electrode.
Do trade agreements like USMCA or EU Free Trade Agreements affect the duty rates for HS 854590?
Yes, trade agreements can significantly affect duty rates for HS code 854590. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), goods originating from Canada or Mexico may qualify for preferential duty rates, potentially reducing or eliminating duties. Similarly, the European Union has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with various countries that could offer reduced tariffs on goods classified under 854590, provided they meet the rules of origin stipulated in each agreement. To benefit from these agreements, importers must possess a valid certificate of origin and ensure the goods meet the specific origin criteria.